Illinois Fraternal Order of Police (ILFOP) Spoon River Valley Lodge 427 President Donald “Ike” Hackett issued the following statement regarding the sentencing today of life in prison plus 13 years for Daylon Richardson, the man convicted of killing Knox County Sheriff’s Deputy Nicholas Weist on April 29, 2022. Weist was a member of FOP Lodge 427:
“The judge showed no mercy for the despicable felon who killed Nick, and that’s how it should be when someone brutally robs us of such a fine public servant, community supporter and family man. Nick and his purposeful life will long be remembered, while his killer will be forgotten as the prison gates slam shut and lock him away for life. Our thanks go to Judge Kauzlarich who made sure to hand down a sentence that will never allow Nick’s murderer to experience freedom again, and I urge all Knox County residents to honor Nick’s memory by continuing to support the men and women of law enforcement who risk their lives every day to ensure the freedoms we treasure.”
The Illinois Fraternal Order of Police stands as a crucial advocate for law enforcement, representing over 34,000 active and retired officers across the state—more than 10 percent of the national organization’s membership. Established in 1963, the Illinois State Lodge works to elevate the law enforcement profession while safeguarding members’ rights. Officers benefit from a range of services, including legal defense support, scholarships, and peer counseling. As both a legislative voice and fraternal network, the Illinois FOP’s extensive programs emphasize support, continuing education, and community among its members, reinforcing its status as a pillar within the law enforcement community.